Every girl deserves to cross the finish line feeling strong, supported, and seen. That’s exactly what Gamma Phi Beta helps make possible as a national partner of Girls on the Run. Through their local chapter’s role as Wonder Walkers, they ensure no girl is left behind—on race day and beyond.

During Women’s History Month, we are proud to celebrate Anilla Alexander, the inaugural chair of the Girls on the Run Southeastern Wisconsin Young Professionals Board. Through her leadership, a new generation of community leaders is helping expand opportunities for girls to build confidence, connection, and courage.

MILWAUKEE, WI - Girls on the Run of Southeastern Wisconsin celebrated its largest annual Sneaker Soiree to date on Friday, February 27, 2026, welcoming a record-breaking crowd and raising nearly $240,000 to expand programming and financial assistance for girls across Southeastern Wisconsin.  The annual event was presented by Baird.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MILWAUKEE, WI - Girls on the Run of Southeastern Wisconsin celebrated its largest annual Sneaker Soiree to date on Friday, February 27, 2026, welcoming a record-breaking crowd and raising nearly $240,000 to expand programming and financial assistance for girls across Southeastern Wisconsin.  The annual event was presented by Baird.

At Girls on the Run, our volunteers are the heart of our program — showing up week after week to help girls discover their strength, confidence, and voice. This February, we’re excited to spotlight Julie Ristow, a dedicated community coach at Milwaukee College Prep, who has been part of the Girls on the Run family for three spring seasons since 2024.

Meet the Leaders Behind Sneaker Soiree: Our Emcee & Event Co-Chairs

Sneaker Soirée is more than a fundraiser — it is a celebration of community, leadership, and the shared commitment to creating a world where every girl knows her limitless potential. This year’s event is led by three incredible community champions whose professional work, lived experience, and dedication to youth development help bring the mission of Girls on the Run to life.

We are proud to introduce our Sneaker Soirée Emcee and Event Co-Chairs.

Move with Meaning: Keep Your New Year’s Resolution While Making an Impact

January 26–31 | GOTR Fitness Week hosted by the Girls on the Run Young Professionals Board

If you set a New Year’s resolution to move more, feel stronger, or prioritize your well-being—this is your moment to keep it going with purpose.

The Girls on the Run Southeastern Wisconsin Young Professionals Board is proud to host GOTR Fitness Week – Move with Meaning, a week-long series of fitness experiences designed to energize your body while supporting a powerful mission. From January 26–31, join us at studios and community partners across the Milwaukee area and turn your movement into meaningful impact.

Proceeds from Fitness Week go directly to Girls on the Run Southeastern Wisconsin, supporting our mission of building confidence, strength, and resilience in young girls through our life-changing programs.